Olaopa Advocates for Better Retirement Preparation

Prof. Tunji Olaopa, the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission, addressed a senior citizens’ summit organized by the High-Tech Centre for Women & Youths (HTCNWY) in Abuja on Thursday.

In his keynote speech, themed “Upskilling Seniors in Cottage Technologies for Sustainable Development & Energize Commercialisation Now,” he shared insights from his own experience of sudden retirement after 30 years in the civil service. Olaopa stressed the importance of proper preparation for retirement, noting that many public servants' skills are not marketable outside their organizations.

He expressed concern over the meager pensions that most retirees receive, which are insufficient for a meaningful life. He advocated for a system that prepares public servants for post-retirement endeavors, aiming to keep retirees engaged, enable economic activities to supplement pensions, and allow them to mentor younger generations.

Olaopa's remarks reflect a broader need for reforms in the public service to harness the talents of retirees.